Things to Do in Cusco - Machu Picchu

One of the most renowned and spectacular architectural sites on the planet, Machu Picchu is simply awe-inspiring. This incredible ancient Incan city perches atop the Andes at 2430 metres above sea level. A UNESCO World Heritage Site in the sky, what’s often called ‘The Lost City of the Incas’ is an absolute must for all visitors to Peru. If you’re planning an extended stay in the area, then the nearby city of Cusco is the perfect spot to set up camp between this towering world of the ancients and the here and now .

Areas & Neighbourhoods in Machu Picchu

Cusco — As well as being a UNESCO World Heritage site itself, Cusco was once also the capital of the Inca Empire. Still a thriving hub today, Cusco is a blaze of colourful traditional crafts and textiles, and a wonderful place to stay in its own right. Cusco delivers all this and the Sacred Valley of the Incas right on your doorstep.

Wayna Picchu — This imposingly steep mountain may already be familiar to you from pictures of Machu Picchu. Towering over the ruins, the mountain might seem almost insurmountable from the base, but a narrow set of stone stairs will take those daring enough to the top. The walk itself is a beautiful trek, but the view once you reach the summit is simply out of this world, with its bird’s eye view down on to Machu Picchu and the endless mountainscape beyond.

Inti Punku, the Sun Gate — If you head in to Machu Picchu along the Inca Trail your arrival at the Sun Gate marks the threshold of the ancient city. As well as affording fabulous views into the valleys, for those of you up early enough and able to hike fast enough, you might even make it in time for sunrise. If so you will witness a truly splendid scene as the sun rises over the mountain to shine through the gate.

Temple of the Sun — This incredible centrepiece of the city is a true wonder. Unlike the rest of the city’s stonework, which is functional but unspectacular in itself, the detailed masonry at the Temple of the Sun is incredible. Meticulously cut bricks fit together perfectly demonstrating the staggering technical prowess of the ancient masons.

Things to See in Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu is itself one endless sight to behold, and having made it this far you’ll not want to miss a thing. But as you head away, don’t overlook the many sights to take in back at Cusco. This beautiful city boasts incredible colonial architecture that frequently sits atop walls that have stood since the time of the Inca Empire. What’s more, Cusco is a lively city, with a thriving nightlife buzzing along the ancient city streets.

Things to Do in Machu Picchu

If you’re keen to sift through an array of traditional crafts and produce, the main market in Cusco is a colourful swirl of stalls and traders. Once you’ve exhausted yourself there, then perhaps head next door to the Plaza de San Francisco, where you can set yourself up with a great cup of local coffee at one of the many cafes there. If you’re a runner and you’re really keen to test your mettle then you should certainly see how you get on south or east of the plaza. These are great running routes, and the thin air at high altitude will really put you through your paces.

Oops!

Sorry, we are currently having problems connecting to our server. You can still download the app by clicking on the app-store buttons in our app page. Thank you!

We are having trouble processing your phone number. Try using this format: {{phoneNumberFormat}}. Thank you!

It looks like you just tried to enter a non-{{countryName}} phone number. Unfortunately, at this time we are only supporting {{countryName}} numbers. Please enter your number in the following format: {{phoneNumberFormat}}. Thank you!

Thank you! A text with the download link has been sent to your mobile device

Get the FREE Expedia App:

By providing your number, you agree to receive a one-time automated text message with a link to get the app. Our app offers promotions and booking services. No purchase necessary. Standard text message rates may apply.

Expedia Partners

*Savings based on all holiday package bookings with Flight + Hotel on Expedia.co.uk from July 2015 to June 2016, as compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings will vary based on origin/destination, length of trip, stay dates and selected travel supplier(s). Savings not available on all packages.

Flight-inclusive holiday packages and Flight-Plus arrangements created on Expedia.co.uk are financially protected by the Civil Aviation Authority (under Expedia, Inc.'s ATOL number 5788). But ATOL protection does not apply to all holiday and travel services listed on this website. Please ask us to confirm what protection may apply to your booking. If you do not receive an ATOL Certificate then your booking will not be ATOL protected. If you do receive an ATOL Certificate but all the parts of your trip are not listed on it, those parts will not be ATOL protected. Please see our general terms and conditions for further details on ATOL or for more information about financial protection and the ATOL Certificate go to: www.atol.org.uk/ATOLCertificate.

For the sale of travel insurance Expedia Inc. is an Appointed Representative of AWP Assistance UK Limited trading as Allianz Global Assistance which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). AWP Assistance UK Limited's FCA registration number is 311909. FCA authorisation can be checked at the FCA register at www.fsa.gov.uk/register/